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If you're a beginner, renting Nordic ski equipment for your first forays onto the slopes can be a challenge. Skiing is not as simple as grabbing a pair of sticks and skis, then hopping on the trail. It's actually a blending of experience, science and art combined which dictates which Nordic skis you'll want. Before you head to the lodge or book your trip to the mountains, here are a few tips to keep in mind. 1. Know your body weight in order to choose your ski length. All ski equipment, especially Nordic skis, are actually precision equipment. To choose the right ski, a little physics lesson is in order. As you ski along a straight line, your weight is equally distributed over both skis and are easy to control. The skis grip zones are designed to arch slightly upward according to your weight, lifting the camber above the snow. With the right lift, the weight is applied to the tips of the skis which provides a smoother gliding surface. If you shift your weight downward on one foot, the ski's arch will bend, putting the grip zone in contact with the snow. This enables the traction or grip provided by the wax to slow the ski which helps you to turn. Knowing your weight is the key to selecting your ski, because the length of the ski will vary according to the amount of pressure placed upon it. 2. Know your bindings. Nordic skis come in several types of bindings. You will probably select one of the following varieties. • New Nordic Norm Binding (NNN)- This type of binding connects the boot to the ski via two ridges raised above the surface of the ski and a toe clip. The NNN binding provides optimal cross-country maneuverability, since it enables the skier to easily lift the tail of the ski during kicks. • Salomen Nordic System (SNS) Profil - The SNS uses a single ridge and sole grove to affix the ski to the boot. The solid fit ensures evenly distributed weight that mimics the feel and positioning of the NNN. Another type of SNS binding is called the Pilot which uses two metal rods at the toe clip instead of a single one used on the Profil. Many cross-country skiers prefer the Pilot, because of the improved flex-and-kick motion it provides. 3. Know the difference between waxable and waxless bases. Nordic skiers choose between waxable and waxless skis depending on the type of Nordic activity they're engaging in. High performance skiers usually opt for waxable skis for the smooth, fast glide they provide. If you've never waxed a ski before, you may want to consult with an experienced skier to show you how. Waxless skis are much easier to maintain than a waxable ski, making them a great choice for beginners. The textured base, rather than the friction of the wax, provides the grip on the snow. Most casual skiers who prefer not to invest time and maintenance into waxing, opt for waxless skis. If you're the kind to go totally overboard and start asking about dual sidecuts, double cambers, torsional stiffness and other advanced topics, it's OK. An experienced ski guide will know the answers to your questions. Nonetheless, it helps to have at least a bit of knowledge before as you head into your adventure with Nordic ski equipment. Before you hit the slopes with a Nordic rental, you'll want to spend some time learning how to ski without your heel attached to the boot. Wayne Jones found that the Nordic lessons offered by Stevens Pass Nordic Center were extremely valuable.
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